WASHINGTON, DC - The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) applauds Senator Schumer (D-NY) for conducting Tuesday's hearing underscoring how important immigrant workers are to our nation's economy. AILA calls on Congress to follow Sen. Schumer's lead by joining him in creating a viable immigration policy that can produce more jobs and push the economy forward.

AILA President Eleanor Pelta said, "The new Congress should be focused on America's economic recovery. Improving legal channels for future workers to complement the current workforce would help to expand our economy, welcome investors, and incentivize innovators and entrepreneurs to bring their talent to the United States. On the other hand, doing nothing but enforcement-like making E-Verify mandatory-will only threaten the jobs of thousands of U.S. citizens and saddle U.S. businesses with additional costs."

"AILA urges that Congress pursue policies that serve the interests of all workers. Congress should roll up its sleeves and find a solution. Tougher enforcement can be done to ensure proper workplace standards, including fair wage requirements and safety and health laws, but only when it is combined with a smart and workable immigration reform policy," said Pelta.

Pelta added, "Studies show that immigrants have a positive impact on the economy and job growth and today's hearing will highlight that fact. It is well documented that immigrants raise the overall standard of living of American workers by increasing wages and lowering prices. In fact, a recent economic study shows that immigration produces an increase in wages for most native-born workers, including African Americans, and that immigrants complement the work of U.S. employees and increase their productivity."

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The American Immigration Lawyers Association is the national association of immigration lawyers established to promote justice, advocate for fair and reasonable immigration law and policy, advance the quality of immigration and nationality law and practice, and enhance the professional development of its members.